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Giant leap forward in quest for Millom skatepark

DREAMS of a Millom skatepark could be set to become a reality after councillors pledged their support for a new scheme.

optimistic Andrea Crawford

The Bundies, a grassroots community group based in Millom, formed after a group of youths built BMX ramps in an abandoned factory in Devonshire Road last year.

After being moved on from several sites, Copeland Borough Council has now offered the group land surrounding the Palladium, in St George’s Road, on a six-month trial basis.

Members of Millom Town Council approved the proposals which would run until October with a 10pm curfew.

The legal agreements and conditions with the group are still being thrashed out but Andrea Crawford, who has worked with the youngsters, said the talks have left her “optimistic” for the future.

Ms Crawford said: “There is still a long way to go.

“We’ve got to sort out public liability and a lease has to be drawn up.

“We’d be up until October but I would expect a few objections.

“I have to speak to the kids too.”

Ms Crawford said a number of councillors had been a big help and thanked Councillors Doug and Felicity Wilson, Councillor Elaine Woodburn and Councillor Denise Burness.

Members of the town council said on Wednesday that they supported the principle of the land being handed over for a trial basis.

Councillor Jack Park, speaking at the meeting, said: “I’d support a six-month trial, what harm can it do? It’ll be well-policed, mostly by the kids themselves and if anything happens that is their fault it will be removed immediately.”

Councillor Burness said: “Over the past couple of years we’ve said there is very little for young people. This will be a proving ground.

“It’s on the main road access which isn’t ideal but for six months we can risk it.

Have your say

The kids would do well on the trial run. If cameras were up to help look after the place as we know from last time, people who were against the bundies chose to destroy everything and the bundies were blamed for not respecting the grounds and what helpers had done for them. If everyone left the place tidy and and didn't draw on everything, then the right people will support them. The bundies is for everyone not just a select few. Join and be a part of our bundies.